On Gorsuch decision, Casey put people before politics

DESPITE HIS TENUOUS POLITICAL position as a Democrat facing reelection in a state won by Republican President Donald Trump, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey chose his constituents over threats from a well-funded opposition.

In announcing his intention to vote no on the confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch, Casey listened to constituents like myself who asked him to vote against Gorsuch—a judge with a penchant for putting corporations before people.

In an age when too many politicians value their own interests more than the constituents they represent, Casey chose the people over himself. For that, he has earned my respect.

Still, announcing his intention to vote against Gorsuch’s nomination is politically dangerous, especially since a coalition of conservative groups led by the Judicial Crisis Network pledged to spend up to $10 million to help get Gorsuch confirmed.

If such a coalition could spend that kind of money to support Gorsuch, it could also spend similar money to oppose Casey. I asked the Senator why he was willing to take such a political risk.

“Politics should play no role in my duty to review an appointee to the most powerful court in the world,” Casey said in an emailed response.

Solomon Jones is an Essence bestselling author and award-winning columnist. He is the creator and editor of Solomonjones.com and morning host on 900 am WURD radio. Click here to learn more about Solomon.